Abstract

This work shows the concept of a simple, single-step, partial pyrolysis approach to prepare inorganic
composite hollow fibers at low temperature conditions. Two series of robust, photocatalytic and highperformance
membranes were synthesized by changing the pyrolysis temperature (Series 1: 500
e600 !C for 8 h) and time (Series 2: 550 !C for 3e12 h), leading to the formation of a composite matrix
consisted of carbonaceous char and titania nanoparticles. Chemical composition, phase of crystallinity,
mechanical strength, textural characteristics, morphology and photocatalytic activity of the hollow fibers
were comprehensively characterized. Mechanical strength of the hollow fibers was found to directly
attribute to the amount of char and porosity. Hollow fibers, prepared using 8 h at 550 and 575 !C or 6 h at
550 !C condition, displayed a good balance between the highest mechanical strength of 52 MPa and
photo-degradation of 90.4% of acid orange 7 under ultra-violet light. This was attributed to the optimization
of degree of char derived from the binder and the exposure of anatase titania nanoparticles on
the hollow fiber surface made available for photo-oxidation. This work offers the opportunity for future
development of a fully integrated photocatalysis and membrane operation for wastewater treatment
applications.